Honda warns dealers of shortages of Civics, more

Honda warned its U.S. dealers today that there will be shortages later in the summer of popular models such as the just-on-sale, redesigned Civic compact.

Honda says the ongoing parts shortages due to the disaster and continuing power disruptions in Japan will significantly cut production of the new 2012 Civic through the summer -- if not longer -- according to the warning reported by the Associated Press.

The production problems also will delay by at least a month this fall introduction of the much-awaited, refreshed 2012 version of the CR-V small crossover, the best-selling SUV in the USA. To make up for the inventory gap, Honda will keep making the 2011 version longer than planned, according to the report.

Both Civic and CR-V are built in North America, but like other automakers, Honda is running short of chips, sensors and other parts supplied from Japan.

As for vehicles made in Japan:

Honda said it will be able to import a limited number, which means dealers won't be able to order the Fit subcompact, CR-Z hybrid coupe and the Insight and Civic hybrids until later in the year.

"Our goal remains to normalize overall production sometime around the end of the year," John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda, wrote in the dealer memo obtained by the AP.

Shortages also will cut supply of some Acuras. Dealers won't be able to order the TSX small car and wagon and the RL large sedan until later in the year, the memo said.

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About Chris Woodyard

Chris Woodyard is an auto writer for USA TODAY who covers all aspects of motoring. He revels in the exhaust note of a Maserati and the sharp creases of a Cadillac CTS. Chris strives to live a Porsche life on a Scion budget. More about Chris